One of the wonderful things about living in Hawaii is landscaping with lush tropical plants. Blessed with daily sunshine, fertile volcanic soil, frequent rain, and a year-round growing cycle, we can quickly transform our yards into exotic gardens. ADVERTISING One
One of the wonderful things about living in Hawaii is landscaping with lush tropical plants. Blessed with daily sunshine, fertile volcanic soil, frequent rain, and a year-round growing cycle, we can quickly transform our yards into exotic gardens.
Utilizing tropical friendly landscape designs can make a significant difference in your home’s comfort level. Unless you live on the west side of the Kohala Coast, or at another arid location in Hawaii, placing plants too close to your home and planting trees that shade your home will increase the humidity level of your home, while decreasing air flow and sunlight entering into the home.
After it rains, sunshine plays an essential role in drying out the home and the ground surrounding it. Shade trees and other plants planted near the home create a moist environment which increase humidity levels.
We feel more comfortable when humidity levels inside the home are lower than 50 percent. When humidity levels increase above 60 percent, not only do we feel hot and sticky, mold flourishes. If you feel you are suffering from vog, and the humidity level in and around your home is consistently above 60 percent, you may be suffering from the ill effects of excessive mold spores, rather than vog. An inexpensive and relatively easy method to combat mold is to apply a fungicide on the siding of your home and under the eaves at least once every two years.
To reduce maintenance while creating a better living environment, landscape the perimeter of the home in a manner that directs water to flow away from the foundation. Low growing plants, like asparagus fern and society garlic are ideal to plant within six feet of the home. When possible use crushed volcanic rock as ground cover and use drip irrigation when planting near the home.
Cutting back and removing overgrown plants enhances the appeal of your home while reducing humidity levels. It only takes a few years before attractive smaller plants, bushes and trees to become overgrown and unattractive. Unless you are landscaping with plants that have a limited height, you should anticipate re-planting every two to three years.
Keep in mind that if you are fortunate enough to have an ocean view, good neighbors in Hawaii do not plant trees behind or on the side of their homes. So if those trees you planted some years ago have grown tall enough to block your neighbor’s view, your neighbors will most likely want to lend a hand when you trim them back or remove them, while you benefit from the added comfort of your home.
Blessington is a resident of Kailua-Kona.
